Dirt Road News
Last year, more than 2,000 Vermonters shared their perspectives through the Dirt Road News project. This year, we’re continuing the conversation. Dirt Road News is bringing VTDigger into communities across the state to listen, build relationships and better understand the experiences, priorities and information needs of Vermonters, with a continued focus on younger Vermonters and rural communities.
Take the survey
Announcements
Dirt Road News is back on the road this summer
Join us as we travel around Vermont, listen to communities and continue the conversation with a new survey and summer events.
What 2,200 Vermonters told us about local news
The Dirt Road News project gathered responses from younger and rural Vermonters, revealing that local news is often hard to find and unevenly distributed, even as many respondents expressed strong trust in VTDigger and a clear appetite for more local coverage.
Join us at St. Johnsbury Distillery for trivia night with the Dirt Road News project
VTDigger is heading to St. Johnsbury Distillery on Thursday, Sept. 25. All are welcome for trivia, prizes and good conversation!
Take our survey: We want to hear from Vermont’s young and rural voices
As news habits shift, we are working to make sure our reporting meets people where they are and reflects the full range of experiences across Vermont.
Join us at Babes Bar for trivia night with the Dirt Road News project
VTDigger is hosting trivia night at Babes Bar in Bethel on Thursday, Aug. 21. We’ll be there with giveaways, prizes and good conversation. All are welcome!
Frequently asked questions
What is Dirt Road News?
Dirt Road News is a VTDigger community listening project. We’re traveling around Vermont, meeting people where they are and asking a simple question: What matters in your community?
Through surveys, community events and local partnerships, we’re gathering feedback to help VTDigger better understand and serve communities across the state.
Who can take the survey?
Anyone who lives in Vermont is welcome to participate.
Dirt Road News has a continued focus on rural communities and younger Vermonters, but we’d love to hear from anyone who wants to share their perspective.
How do I know if I’m rural?
When we say “rural,” we mean anywhere in Vermont that isn’t considered urban — so, not Burlington or Winooski. Most Vermont towns and small communities qualify. If you’re unsure, you probably are rural enough for this survey!
Why young and rural Vermonters?
Most local news is shaped by the people who speak up. Dirt Road News is about making sure everyone is heard, not just the usual crowd.
In our spring reader survey in 2025, more than 2,000 people responded, but 80% were over age 50. With this project, we’re making a direct effort to connect with the voices we don’t hear from as often.
How long does the survey take?
The survey takes 3 minutes for most people.
Is my information private?
Yes. Responses are stored securely and analyzed in aggregate. We won’t sell your data or share personally identifying information outside VTDigger.
What are community ambassadors?
Ambassadors are local connectors who help spread the word and make sure we’re hearing from folks we might otherwise miss. They act as guides and help us stay accountable.
How will feedback be used?
We’ll combine survey results with notes from pop-ups and conversations, then share back what we learn. Insights will guide reporting, story framing and where we show up next.
